SIS Pitches Acquires Both DrainTalent and HeatTalent to Revolutionise Sustainable Pitch Technology

Global leader in sports surfaces SIS Pitches has acquired a majority stake in DrainTalent, a Netherlands-based business specialising in circular soil management systems, and HeatTalent, an innovative and sustainable, electric undersoil heating.

This latest acquisition cements SIS Pitches’ position as the most comprehensive provider of pitch construction and maintenance by incorporating two further sub-surface technology systems at the cutting-edge of soil science within their already comprehensive range of add-on systems.

DrainTalent’s patented, flagship product – which shares the same name as the company – is a unique, sustainable soil management system that regulates moisture levels in soil by extracting water from the top layer and reintroducing it from below. This keeps grass healthier and improves recovery after use, resulting in less fixture cancellations.

Using the system’s sensors and climate information provided in the company’s app, grounds teams can manage their playing surface conditions remotely via a connected device. Working this way, a sports club can drastically reduce its water consumption while also promoting natural grass growth. With installations at both amateur and elite-level, DrainTalent has been proven effective across the most challenging playing conditions, guaranteeing optimal conditions all year round.

The acquisition also includes HeatTalent, pioneers of innovative electrical undersoil heating systems, some of which are already being used within the Eredivisie, having been installed at FC Utrecht. One of HeatTalent’s lead technologies include grid heating, a wired, uninsulated stainless-steel grid that heats the soil at much quicker speeds using low voltage and high frequency current pulses.

SIS Pitches’ acquisitions come off the back of impressive organic growth in recent years, with revenue up by 30% over 2024/25. In response, the company has opened new offices in the USA, Saudi Arabia, Georgia and Poland to meet the needs of its growing client base.

The acquisitions are also the latest step in an ongoing growth strategy, which seeks to invest in forward-thinking businesses that add a competitive edge to its existing portfolio. DrainTalent was a natural choice in this respect, with the company boasting its own Research and Innovation Centre. This facility – located next to the manufacturing site – is used to validate product performance, with all trials audited by a local independent consultancy.

George Mullan, Executive Chairman of SIS Pitches, said: “DrainTalent has an exciting range of products that complement what we do as a business, backed by data and the latest industry insights. It’s a company that aligns with our vision to deliver exceptional sports surfaces at every level of competition across the world. These acquisitions are an important step for our long-term growth, adding an extra dimension of performance for both new and existing customers.”

Ivo Lamot, CEO of SIS Pitches, added: “These acquisitions mark an exciting step forward. For existing clients, we’re unlocking enhanced pitch longevity, reducing water usage and maintenance costs, ensuring greater year-round playability. Similarly, DrainTalent clients will now have access to premium surface technology and a seamless end-to-end service through SIS. This combined offering is unmatched in the market.”

Arno Reimert, Managing Director at DrainTalent believes the investment from SIS will be key to the system’s long-term success: “Our shareholders and management see great potential in cooperation with the SIS team to grow global sales and development of the DrainTalent company and its products. With SIS’s proven installation expertise and global reach, we’re now positioned to deliver even greater value – from sustainability gains and lower lifetime costs to a seamless experience for facility owners and grounds teams. It’s a powerful combination that takes our system to the next level.”

Recognising the product’s success and brand visibility, DrainTalent will continue to operate under its current name, as an affiliated company within SIS Pitches.